

ABSTRACT

An improvement in a catheter assembly (10) including a cannula (12), an inserter (22) having a guide channel (20) therethrough in which the cannula (12) slidably fits, and a hub structure (28) with the cannula proximal end portion (16) attached to the hub structure (28). The improvement includes a sheath (36) having a longitudinal slit (41) or weakened portion and being about the cannula (12) between the inserter (22) and the hub structure (28). A sheath stripping construction (42) carried by the inserter (22) strips the sheath (36) from about the cannula (12) as the cannula (12) slides distally through the guide channel (20). A first lock member (52) is carried by the inserter (22) and an interlocking second lock member (62) is located about the cannula (12) between the inserter (22) and the hub structure (28). The cannula (12) is protected from contamination and from kinking, and a positive lock serves to prevent its accidental withdrawal. A method of inserting a cannula using such an assembly is likewise set forth.



